No cramming, Stamas says

Published 8:00 pm, Wednesday, October 8, 2003

His Senate Bill 760 would add Internet service providers to other telecommunications providers listed in the Michigan Telecommunications Acts provision against cramming, Stamas office said in a prepared statement.

Cramming refers to billing without the customers knowledge or consent.

Stamas office reported that the Michigan Public Service Commission received several hundred complaints from telecommunications customers, mostly small businesses.

At least one complaint came from a business that did not have computers or Internet access.

"Small business owners have enough to worry about without having to go over their phone bills with a fine-tooth comb each month to make sure they arent being charged for services they didnt authorize," Stamas said in the prepared statement.

Penalties for intentional violation are $20,000 to $30,000 on the first offense and $30,000 to $70,000 for subsequent offenses.

Compensation of victimized customers and authorized providers of service also can be ordered.

A pattern of violations can lead to revocation of license.

The bill reportedly will be referred to the Senate Technology and Energy Committee.